Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 27 March 2014
143. Deputy Anthony Lawlor asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide an update on the establishment of an independent electoral commission, as outlined in the programme for Government; when he expects the electoral commission to be up and running; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14621/14]
View answerThe Programme for Government contains a commitment to establish an Electoral Commission to subsume functions of existing bodies and my Department. It is intended that the necessary policy analysis and preparatory work for the presentation of options in relation to the establishment of an Electoral Commission will be advanced in 2014. This will involve detailed and considered work. Issues for consideration will include international best practice, the Commission's structure and functions, who it reports to, its relationship with other bodies currently involved in electoral administration, and the approach to be followed in relation to the extensive legislation that will be required, as well as practical matters including staffing and funding arrangements.
